Being out of town last week, away from school and schedules was a great chance for me to eek out some much needed quiet time knitting, reading, writing, resting. Although, as Ellen suggested, the view was awfully distracting; in a good way, that is.
Of course knitting was a top priority.
I finished up my first colorwork hat which was both thrilling and disappointing. The hat looks wonderful and I’m mostly happy with it but in my beginner’s naiveté I didn’t realize how tight the portion of stranded knitting would be. I have yet to block it so I’m hoping for miraculous blocking results. As it is the seven-year-old loves it. But it’s snug…pop off the top of her head snug. Fingers crossed I can block an extra inch or so out of it? Either way, I’ll find a head to model it here! For now I just have a sneak peek.
Modelled in front of our compost bin along with the green girl’s mallory cowl.
Inspired by the lovely Rebecca, who I think could safely be described as a knitting (and crochet) powerhouse, I decided to knit one of these cute turtles for next month’s birthday boy. For the last year his favourite colour has been yellow so I thought I was safe to work from the never-ending ball (possibly better described as a boulder) of yellow cotton yarn. Turns out, though, he’s decided to change his favourite colour to green. That would have been both better suiting for a turtle and better to know a week ago. Another good to know sooner fact – this month’s birthday boy (as in this weekend) would also love a turtle. I missed the boat on that one.
Alas, I’m hoping someone will love this sweet reptile. I’ve finished his body – complete with safety eyes (I got mine here) and wool stuffing but have yet to get started on his limbs. Currently he’s looking rather odd. I’m sure a shell will help the look. And if he’s in the mood for a fresh, new style there is always the option of knitting him a lion or sheep costume (!!!).
I’m excited to see him all finished up. Hoping I don’t get knitter’s distraction before I get him done!
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Isn’t he cute? Do any of you enjoy making toys? Any hopeful words for my blocking endeavours? Are you working on any needle or hook projects?
Your hat is just beautiful! I really hate it when things glitch with my creations. That is the trouble with patterning.. it takes experience to know how loose to leave the carried yarns. I’m still working on that. 🙂
The turtle is already oozing personality!
Blessings, Debbie
ohmygoodness! he’s looking sooo cute! stuffies are addictive though, i’m warning you! right now i’ve got the little bunny nuggets on the go. 🙂 too cute!
thanks so much for the little shout out! what a wonderful surprise. xoxo
I’m waiting for Rebecca Danger’s book to come in for me at the library…I see monsters in my future! 🙂
The hat is adorable! I think you have a good chance of getting a little more room out of it. It is frustrating when it doesn’t work out the way you expect. I made this really pretty hat out of hemp for an adult (according to pattern) and it might fit a baby. Can’t wait to see the finished turtle!
Ooo, that’s frustrating! I’m afraid to knit with hemp – it seems even less forgiving than cotton!
It’s blocked and drying…so far so good. 🙂
You will be amazed at what blocking will do. The hat looks perfect in the photo!! It doesn’t look like it needs extreme blocking to me. Love your little stuffie 🙂
Thanks, Karen! That means a lot coming from a master knitter like you!
I will be happy to see him with his shell on – right now he does look a bit odd and out of sorts! 🙂 I have to say, I do find it fun to make toys. Haven’t made that many but would like to make a whole lot more. The only thing is, I don’t really have a slew of recipients who would appreciate a knitted toy that much. Did finish my puppy though – so that’s good.
Sorry about the hat – don’t know too much about blocking, but I’m sure it will help.
Love how the hat turned out, Rachel! I think my three girls need one…but next winter….close to 80 here today! Glad you had a good getaway!
Blocking can work wonders. I suggest using a balloon to block it. That was the best trick I learned. That Sheldon is too cute in costume. I queued him eons ago, but never found the right recipient. I may have to revisit that pattern. I really liked knitting the eco-fairy from knitty as well as the love robot guy from Danger. As for me I am still working on my sweater.
That is the cutest turtle! Sadly, I have to admit I am not that great with craft work – mainly because I lack certain patience that such handiwork requires! It’s pretty poor excuse, I know. But I love seeing others’ work of art like yours!
Ronnie xo
Hi Rachel,
Like you and am enjoying each moment with my little one – I know can you believe how big they are getting already????
Such sweet special times. I have actually never blocked anything before – but probably should have, so don’t have any advice there.
Warm wishes,
Tonya
I too love making toys of all kinds! He does need a shell, looking a bit funny right now:)
So cute! I have had Sheldon bookmarked in Ravlery for ages, I really want to make one for my little boy. When he was a newborn we used to tease that he looked like a turtle without a shell. Turtles became his symbol when he was a babe.
Do you like the pattern so far? the shell looks like it will be fun to knit.
[…] for the other unfinished gift…remember this guy? He’s still in the same state he was then. I think I’m admitting defeat to him for […]